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#AVIARDTIP – 5 WAYS TO MAKE YOURSELF MORE EMPLOYABLE!

October 19, 2015

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Whether you want to get a job to kick off a shining career, whether you just need some cash or hell, you just want to get out of the house – we’re here to help.

Getting a job you actually want can seem like a pretty daunting process, and often, it’s hard to know exactly where to begin. Don’t worry, with this fool-proof guide you’ll soon be on your way.

1. Figure out what you want from this job

There really isn’t any point applying to anything and everything. First of all, it means you will burn out SUPER fast, and your applications will end up being really crappy. That’s just the truth.

Before you start hammering down the doors of every place in town, ask yourself, what do you actually want to do? What skills do you want to build? What are you good at, and what kind of work sounds like it could be fun? After all, there’s no point doing this work thing unless it’s at least kinda enjoyable…

2. Tap up your network (yes you have a network)

Once you’ve figured out what kind of a job you want to do (no, rollercoaster tester doesn’t count), you need to figure out if you already have any connections in that line of work, or vaguely connected to that line of work.

Start with your parents, your family friends, even your teachers- anyone you know that might be able to help you with an introduction to someone in the industry. Not only will this help you get an insider’s perspective, but if you come with a recommendation, employers are far more likely to take you seriously.

3. Sort out your CV

Afraid there’s no quick or easy way to do this, and YES, your CV does need to be tailored to the job that you’re interested in. Trust, an employer CAN TELL if you’ve sent the same cover letter and CV to everyone. That’s not a hard thing to figure out. Make sure that your CV is shining with all of your relevant skills, any achievements and is brimming with your desire to learn more. You’re the model employee in the marking.

4. Get in touch with employers

Whether it’s through someone you know, a job ad online, in your local paper or if you’re just trying your luck with a company you like – make sure these communications are tailored to the individual employer.

Yes, it’s boring, yes, its arduous, but dammit it will serve you well in the long run. Employers are always impressed when young candidates take the time to get to know their business (read: spend 10 minutes on their company website), and will take your application a lot more seriously.

5. Don’t give up (and ask for feedback)

There really is no magic formula – it’s a case of putting in the work into each application, and having faith that it will eventually pay off. If a potential employer turns you down, make sure you ask them what you could do to improve your application, and get moving on improving it. It may be that they need more experience in certain areas (which doing a bit of volunteering can often help with), or require knowledge of certain programmes or skills (which often you can get access to online).

Basically, if you want it enough, and you’re ready to put in the time and effort, you can get your foot on a ladder you want to climb. Good luck!